In September 2016, the Shire of Harvey commissioned the production of a book containing stories from community members who were impacted by the Waroona, Yarloop and Harvey January 2016 bushfires.
More than 100 submissions were received from people describing their experience and these include stories, poems, photos and drawings.
In July, guests attended the official launch of the book Stories from the Fireground at the Harvey Recreation and Cultural Centre.
During the evening, Shire President Tania Jackson thanked everyone who had come forward with their recollections, experiences, photos and drawings; a total of 104 contributors.
These first-hand accounts of this devastating event have now been woven into an historic book that captures the heroic efforts of so many people and the impact that it has had on their lives.
Cr Jackson thanked sponsors Minderoo, Alcoa and Lotterywest, editor Ross Le Cras and project coordinator Maree Ellis presenting them with a copy of the book.
The project working group and story collectors who have attended many meetings and sat with people as they shared their stories were acknowledged for their hard work and dedication to the project.
For people wishing to purchase copies of the book they are now available for purchase from the following outlets:
- Shire of Harvey Administration Offices (Located at 102 Uduc Road, Harvey and 7 Mulgara Street. Australind)
- Harvey Visitor Centre
- Yarloop Community Resource Centre
- Waroona Historical Society (contact Deb Tyler on 0417 705 966 or Glenece Walmsley 9733 1687)
The cost of the book is $30 and all fees collected from the sale of the book will be put into trust to be used for a further reprint of the book at a later date.
For more information or to order a copy of the book contact Maree Ellis on 9729 0323 or email mareee@harvey.wa.gov.au.
- from Shire of Harvey
